Dennis Eugene Cokeley, 82, of Duluth, passed away on Tuesday, February 16, 2021.

Denny was born in Sauk Centre, MN on January 4, 1939 to Francis "Red" and Luella (Fenton) Cokely. After serving in the Air Force, he served the customers of Harbor City Oil as a Burner/Furnace Repairman, until his retirement. Upon retirement, Denny and his wife Barb served youth and seniors in the community through the Salvation Army.

Denny was blessed to share 36 years with his...

Dennis Eugene Cokeley, 82, of Duluth, passed away on Tuesday, February 16, 2021.

Denny was born in Sauk Centre, MN on January 4, 1939 to Francis "Red" and Luella (Fenton) Cokely. After serving in the Air Force, he served the customers of Harbor City Oil as a Burner/Furnace Repairman, until his retirement. Upon retirement, Denny and his wife Barb served youth and seniors in the community through the Salvation Army.

Denny was blessed to share 36 years with his loving wife and best friend, Barb. Denny and Barb modeled how to live fully and love completely and without judgement. They shared their life experiences with love and compassion, leaving a person feeling well loved and inspired to spread the love and compassion that they so freely gave others. Denny was a kind, gentle person who loved everybody as if they were his own. Through his story telling and teasing, he brought joy to those around him. His contagious laughter and smile will forever be in our hearts. He was a special gift to all who knew him.

Denny was preceded in death by his wife, Barb; parents; sister, Diane Baker; brother, David Cokely; and brothers-in-law, Roger Schumacher, Jerome Fisher, and Harold Baker.

Denny is survived by children, Annette (Tim) Sedor, Penny (Chris) Dallmann, Gery (Caroline) Swanson, John (Pam) Swanson, Arnette Leier, Ken (Pam) Claflin, Dennis (Terri) Claflin, Georgia Dandrea, and Joe (Linda) Claflin. Denny was a tremendous Grandpa to 9 grandchildren, who adored him and whom he loved immensely, and 6 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Marion Schumacher of Sauk Centre, Karen Fisher of Sauk Centre, Pat (Terry) Crider of Sauk Centre, and Shelly (Tim) DePue of Rogers, Arkansas.

The family wishes to extend a special “Thank you” to the staff at St. Ann’s Seniors’ Residence, for their loving care and support.

A private interment will be held at a later date.

Memorials can be sent to St Ann’s Seniors’ Residence or Salvation Army, both in Duluth MN.